Casandra’s Crossing - Garden of Earthly Delights
(Frontiers Music SRL - 2024)
(Style: Hard Rock)
George Lynch of Dokken and Lynch Mob fame teams up for this release with Casandra Carson of Paralandra. Casandra’a Crossing deliver their first album together in 'Garden of Earthly Delights'. Having heard some of George Lynch’s work with Dokken I know what sort of calibre of musician he is. Casandra Carson however, is a new name on me so know nothing about what sort of vocalist she is ahead of this release.
Stranger opens the album and is a solid, albeit a little generic way to begin. There is an immediate intrigue to Carson’s vocal which grabs my attention from the off though. Impatient follows and showcases some nice fret work from Lynch. Carson’s voice reminds me of someone but I can’t think what band said vocalist Hale’s from. 'Closer To Heaven', 'Ring Me Around' and 'Devastating Times' roll by and I’m sold on this delightful album! Carson’s voice is great and packs Lzzy Hale like power and tone.
I’d be amazed if she doesn’t quickly rise to prominence as one of the best female rock voices around after this album is released. 'Just Business' and 'Mind Eraser' further cement that a new Queen of Rock has emerged. I am already looking into Casandra’s Carson back catalogue with the intention of checking out her band, Paralandra ASAP.
The album continues at full throttle and Carson and Lynch are taking no prisoners so you better “Run For Your Life”! Carson claims to be a “Wicked Woman” but when she sounds this good she can be as wicked as she wants. Closing the album is Kneel Before You but I think many will be kneeling before this Rock Goddess after experiencing this 'Garden of Earthly Delights'.
Frontiers and George Lynch have shone a spotlight on Casandra Carson who impresses here throughout the albums eleven tracks. Hopefully this won’t be a one-time collaboration from Lynch and Carson as they have delivered a strong album together. The album could do with lighter moment to change the pace, as a ballad would have given the album a moment to breathe. The album artwork deserves a mention as it offers a Rodney Matthews vibe to its design.
Overall a good album that should appeal to fans of Halestorm and most who like Modern Hard Rock that packs a punch!
7/10
By Carl Mace